Finchale Priory

Finchale Priory - extensive, beautifully preserved remains of a 13th century, Benedictine priory, founded on the site of a retired pirate's hermitage and now managed by English Heritage.Part of it later served as a holiday retreat for the monks of Durham Cathedral.
It is beautifully sited by the River Wear , about four miles from Durham.We only discovered the spot last Summer so decided to visit again now Spring is here.There are delightful riverside walks nearby, so 'the pup' accompanied us and had the time of their lives.They rare now sleeping off their exertions!Needless to say, most of my pics were of them, as they enjoyed the freedoms of the day.
Got some lovely shots of the resident peacocks but felt it should be a Blip of the priory itself.Besides I just love the series of arches shown here,with design worn away by time.
Such a beautiful sunny day.There were even people picnicing down by the river. So lovely to see this time of year come around again.Long live SPRING!